Don't be Flippant

David Pogue, one of the tech writers for the New York Times, loves the Flip Ultra Video camcorder. It's been out a year, but he just got around to trying it out and reviewing it.

He likes how it runs on AA batteries and is inexpensive at $119 to $179. See his review video here. It is available directly from the company or on Amazon.

The mini-cam is flippant about the "normal" camcorder specs.

It's snappy style makes it easy on the eyes. It's diminutive size makes it easy to carry in a backpack. It's 3 second start to record time makes it perfect for impromptu videos of the kids.

It doesn't require video tape or storage cards. It has flash memory built in sufficient for up to 60 minutes of video. Video is recorded in MPEG4 format.

When you are ready to transfer it to the computer, just flip the built-in USB male port up and plug it directly into your computer to rip the video to the included video editing software - no cables necessary. On Windows, the software will automatically start when you plug the mini-cam into your computer. On Macs, it doesn't start automatically.

There is a set LCD screen on the back, such as you find on digital cameras. It doesn't rotate or flip out like normal camcorders, but will work for the majority of situations just fine.

Battery life is estimated by the maker from 2.5 hours to 6.5 hours depending on type of AA batteries used.

The Flip records in low light and other light-challenged situations. Check it out. You might just find yourself flipping for the Flip Ultra Video.